In his first game for 12 weeks after battling a calf complaint, Taylor was awarded a free kick with his shot hitting the far side post to fall 9.16 (70) to 10.7 (67).

"We were probably pretty lucky in the end to get away with it," Albury co-coach Luke Daly suggested.

"We missed our opportunities when they presented themselves and Wodonga took theirs."

For neutral observers, it was gut-wrenching that Taylor missed because there's no more wholehearted performer.

He had kicked just the one goal, on debut, so it was always going to be a severe test.

Albury led by 35 points at half-time, but then kicked just 1.8.

Former AFL forward Jeff Garlett equalled his best output with three goals, featuring with veteran Shaun Daly and debutant Isaac McGrath.

ALSO IN SPORT

Oscar Willding and Ethan Redcliffe snared four and three majors respectively, joining Josh Clayton and Charlie Morrison in the best.

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